Stainless steel prices in Europe fell further in June, extending a months-long downward trend driven by weak demand and persistent import competition. Distributors report that the market has entered one of its most challenging periods in recent memory, with prices declining steadily and little resistance to the fall.
Fastmarkets assessed domestic transaction prices for 2mm grade 304 cold-rolled sheet in Northern Europe at €2,350–2,420 per tonne on July 4, down €50–80 from early June. Despite the drop, some distributors believe the situation may stabilize after the summer, as past downturns have eventually reversed.
Cheap imports from East Asia continue to pressure domestic pricing, though a weaker euro has slightly offset the impact in dollar terms. Many buyers are adopting a wait-and-see approach, anticipating clearer signals in the autumn.
